Definition of complementnext
1
as in supplement
something that serves to complete or make up for a deficiency in something else with his practicality and her refreshing enthusiasm, they are perfect complements to each other

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2
as in capacity
the largest number or amount that something can hold a full complement of sailors on the ship

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as in to adorn
to serve as a completing element to this silk handkerchief will complement your suit very nicely and give it a bit of dash

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of complement
Noun
Like most brioche, these have a hint of sweetness alongside a buttery taste, the perfect complement to a juicy burger. Elliott Harrell, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2026 Wide receiver Deebo Samuel’s return to the 49ers, starting with Saturday’s practice, wasn’t so much intended as a contingency regarding Pearsall’s health but rather a complement to a revised receiving corps, Lynch said. Cam Inman, Mercury News, 1 Aug. 2026
Verb
Popcorn chicken bites and truffle fries complemented a steady stream of signature tequila cocktails (for those 21 and older) as DJ Zuri Marley supplied the hits. Matt Donnelly, Variety, 7 Aug. 2026 All three of these stones boast qualities that complement the fire sign’s innate attributes. Kelsey Stiegman, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for complement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complement
Noun
  • And like ginseng was supposed to be like this magical supplement that, like, improved health and memory and all sorts of wonderful things.
    Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Thorne is loved by many supplement users for its rigorous quality testing and ingredients.
    Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 6 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • That means investing in domestic manufacturing capacity, strengthening supply chains for critical components and accelerating the deployment of American robotics across industry.
    Ariyan Kabir, Fortune, 8 Aug. 2026
  • While Blanche has already been leading the department in an acting capacity, his confirmation could free him to pursue the administration’s agenda even more aggressively.
    Alanna Durkin Richer, Los Angeles Times, 8 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Nineteenth century Belgian crystal chandeliers and colorful glass lanterns adorn the sanctuary.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026
  • While this loss leaves a silence that words can never fill, farewell messages adorned a growing memorial for both Mikey and Millie, where tributes of light were offered to them.
    Andrew Ramos, CBS News, 7 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Chainalysis attributes 84% of illicit crypto transaction volume to stablecoins, the endpoint of a shift the crime economy started making years ago, and stablecoins now settle more monthly volume than ACH.
    Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Researchers found that people who reported watching television more often in midlife had smaller brain volumes decades later in areas involved in language and thinking.
    Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Finally, the weather forecast is warm in Philadelphia, with the wind slightly blowing out to right field, further enhancing the chances of Schwarber and Harper hitting home runs.
    Josh Shepardson, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Hypersonic launch capabilities enhance the new Virginia class further, analysts said, noting that testing of a hypersonic glide vehicle is well underway.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Good indoor options include home improvement stores, Subaru dealerships, malls (avoid escalators), pet stores and some banks or real estate offices (call ahead).
    Jen Reeder, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Robert Rauschenberg’s home at 381 Lafayette Street in New York’s NoHo neighborhood is listed with commercial real estate company Newmark, Artnet News reports.
    News Desk, Artforum, 6 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The 23-year-old, who won his seventh Grand Slam title at January’s Australian Open to become the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam, injured his right wrist during a match at the Barcelona Open in April.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
  • And to complete your sleepscape, pair these pillows with a soft memory foam or hybrid mattress, and prepare for sweet dreams.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 4 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Armstrong's old bedroom is now decorated with photos and paintings of the moon landing.
    ABC News, ABC News, 5 Aug. 2026
  • The queen of beach reads knows how to write a bestselling novel and decorate her home.
    Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Complement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complement. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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